Family's 'void' after Pc's death

Pc Andrew James was said to have had "tremendous potential"

Family and friends have paid tribute to the police officer killed while chasing a burglar in Cardiff city centre over the weekend.

Pc Andrew James from Caerphilly - married with a five-year-old daughter - was responding to a burglar alarm at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff on Saturday evening.

He was pursuing a man over the city's busy North Road when he was struck by a passing Volkswagen Golf.

In a statement, the family of Pc James, who was from Caerphilly, said: "Andrew was a loving son, a loyal husband and a devoted father.

"He was a dedicated police officer who was well respected by all who knew him.

"His passing will leave a void in our hearts."

At the scene of the incident, a bouquet of red and yellow was signed 'Emily' in a child's handwriting and bore the message: "Love you always Daddy, x."

Another card on flowers read: "To a good officer. You will be missed by all your friends and colleagues at D relief. Police control room."

An appeal for information at the spot where Pc James was injured

Another, signed Jane and Woody, read: "Dearest Andy, friend and colleague, a tragic waste of life whilst doing a job you loved so much.

"Your loss will be greatly felt throughout. We'll miss you. May you rest in peace. Lots of love."

Meanwhile, Detective Superintendent Geoff Cooper of South Wales Police said the force was "absolutely devastated".

Speaking outside Cardiff Central Police Station, he said: "Andrew was a very respected and quiet person, who was very committed, much loved, and very proud to wear his police uniform.

"He is already much missed by all his colleagues and friends in the force.

Please come forward. It is vital you tell us your version of events in order to assist the family in trying to understand what took place that evening. Detective Superintendent Geoff Cooper

"We are working very closely to support the family at such a tragic time."

Mr Cooper issued a direct appeal to the suspected burglar to come forward.

"Please come forward. It is vital you tell us your version of events in order to assist the family in trying to understand what took place that evening," he said.

Pc James had driven to the college campus where he spotted a young man in a baseball cap turn and run away.

The suspect was heading towards Cathays Park, where thousands of people were attending the Big Weekend festival.

Pc James suffered multiple injuries when he was hit near the pedestrian crossing in front of the college.

He died four hours later at the University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff.

The car driver was described as "very upset" at the tragedy. He has been questioned by police but is not expected to be charged with any offence.

The crossing is controlled by lights which were showing green for drivers at the time.

Police later established there had been a burglary at the college, and it was being investigated.

The burglary suspect was described by police as "possibly of dark-skinned appearance" wearing a light baseball cap and dark clothing.

An incident room has been set up at Cardiff Central police station.

Anyone with information about the burglary or the accident is asked to contact police on 029 2052 7420 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.